Demographics and labour force

As a metropolitan region and economic force, Greater Montréal extends beyond the main islands of Montréal and Laval into areas north and south of the Saint Lawrence River. This region of 3.9 million inhabitants - half the population of the province constitutes the economic engine of Québec, generating  50% of the province’s GDP and 60% of its exports.

Montréal is the most bilingual and the most trilingual metropolis in North America. More than 50% of Montréalers are fluent in both English and French and more than 20% speak three or more languages. No wonder Montréal is a location of choice for global companies and international organizations.

Montréal’s university community also reflects the city’s international character, with the largest foreign student population in Canada. This group further enhances Montréal's human resource potential, with knowledge and skills frequently tapped by international organizations in both the public and private sectors.